When your car breaks down in the middle of the road, time feels like it’s standing still. Whether you’re stuck in Calgary’s freezing cold or in the middle of traffic during rush hour, one question that hits your mind is: How long will the emergency towing take?
In this blog, we’ll answer this common question in simple words. We’ll also explain what factors affect towing time, what you can expect, and how you can stay prepared for emergency towing situations.
What Is Emergency Towing?
Emergency towing is when a tow truck comes to help you immediately—usually within minutes or hours—after your vehicle breaks down or is involved in an accident.
This service is available 24/7 and is meant to help drivers in urgent situations like:
- Car accidents
- Battery failure
- Engine trouble
- Flat tires
- Stuck in a ditch or snow
- Running out of fuel
- Car won’t start at all
In short: emergency towing is like calling 911 for your car!
So, How Long Does Emergency Towing Take?
There’s no exact answer because it depends on a few things. But generally:
- Arrival Time: 15 to 45 minutes (in most city areas like Calgary)
- Towing Time: 20 minutes to 1 hour (depending on where your car needs to go)
- Total Arrangement Time: 30 minutes to 1.5 hours
On average, the full emergency towing process may take around 1 hour.
But let’s break it down and look at all the factors that affect the time.
Factors That Affect Emergency Towing Time
1. Your Location
Are you stuck downtown or on the outskirts of Calgary?
- Urban areas: Towing services are quicker because trucks are nearby.
- Remote or rural areas: It may take longer for a tow truck to reach you.
2. Time of Day
The time you call for help matters a lot.
- Daytime: Less waiting time.
- Nighttime or rush hour: More traffic or fewer drivers on duty, so it can take longer.
3. Weather Conditions
Snowstorms, heavy rain, or icy roads can slow down towing response.
- Tow trucks may take longer to reach you due to road safety.
- Sometimes multiple drivers may need emergency help, increasing the wait time.
4. Traffic Conditions
If there’s traffic congestion (which Calgary knows well!), your towing arrangement could be delayed.
- Even GPS-optimized tow trucks can get stuck in traffic.
5. Type of Vehicle
Some vehicles need special towing equipment.
- For example: SUVs, luxury cars, or heavy-duty trucks might need flatbed towing, which can take more time to arrange.
6. Tow Truck Availability
If all tow trucks are already busy, you may have to wait a bit longer.
This is why choosing a company with a large fleet like KTC Towing can make a huge difference.
How to Make the Process Faster?
1. Give Exact Location
Use Google Maps or your phone’s GPS to share your live location with the towing service.
- This helps drivers find you faster.
2. Describe the Situation Clearly
Tell the company what happened. Is it a flat tire? Engine trouble? Car accident?
- The more details you give, the quicker they can send the right kind of truck.
3. Choose a Reliable Towing Company
Not all towing services are the same. Some delay, some overcharge, and some don’t even show up!
At KTC Towing, we offer fast, 24/7 emergency towing services across Calgary.
Emergency Towing at Night – Is It Slower?
Many people assume towing is slow at night, but that’s not always true.
- Good companies like KTC Towing have dedicated night-shift drivers ready to go.
- Yes, there might be fewer trucks on duty, but there’s also less traffic—so response can still be quick.
Just make sure you call a 24-hour towing service, not a regular 9–5 one.
What Happens After the Tow Truck Arrives?
Here’s what you can expect:
- The driver assesses the situation
- Your car is safely loaded or hooked to the truck
- The driver asks where to drop the vehicle (garage, your home, or a mechanic)
- Towing begins
This whole process usually takes 15 to 30 minutes, depending on the problem.
Can I Choose Where My Car Is Taken?
Absolutely! You have full control.
You can choose:
- Your home
- Your regular mechanic
- A recommended repair shop
If you’re not sure, the tow driver can suggest trusted garages nearby.
How Long Will My Car Stay at the Towing Yard (If It Goes There)?
Sometimes, if you can’t receive your car immediately or if it’s outside garage hours, the vehicle may be stored temporarily.
- Short-term storage: 1 to 2 days (common)
- Long-term storage: Up to a week (rare and usually extra cost)
Always ask the towing company about storage rules and charges in advance.
What Should You Do While Waiting for the Tow Truck?
Here are some useful tips:
- Turn on your hazard lights to alert other drivers
- Stay inside your vehicle, especially on busy roads
- Keep your phone battery charged
- Don’t accept help from random strangers, unless you’re sure they’re legit
If it’s cold or dark, KTC Towing drivers always come prepared to ensure your safety.
Why Choose KTC Towing in Calgary?
We get it—emergency situations are stressful. That’s why our team focuses on quick response, professional service, and fair prices.
Here’s what makes us different:
24/7 emergency towing
Flatbed & wheel-lift towing options
Battery boosts, jump-starts & lockout help
Snow & ditch recovery
Trained, friendly drivers
Fully licensed & insured
We operate across Calgary and nearby areas with fast dispatch and transparent pricing.
Q. How long does it take for a tow truck to arrive in an emergency?
Usually, emergency tow trucks arrive within 15 to 45 minutes, depending on your location, traffic, and weather conditions.
Q. Is emergency towing available 24/7 in Calgary?
Yes! KTC Towing offers 24/7 emergency towing services across Calgary, even on weekends and holidays.
Q. What affects the towing time during an emergency?
Towing time depends on location, time of day, road conditions, vehicle type, and tow truck availability.
Q. Can I choose where my car is towed to?
Absolutely! You can request your vehicle to be taken to your home, a mechanic, or any destination of your choice.
Q. What should I do while waiting for the tow truck?
Stay safe inside your car, turn on hazard lights, share your exact location, and avoid accepting help from strangers.
Q. How can I speed up the towing process?
Share your accurate GPS location, clearly explain your vehicle issue, and choose a reliable towing company like KTC Towing.
Q. Does emergency towing take longer at night?
Not necessarily. If you contact a 24-hour service like KTC Towing, response times are often still fast—even at night.
Conclusion: Be Prepared and Choose Wisely
So, how long is the emergency towing arrangement? The answer: usually 30 minutes to 1.5 hours, depending on your location, traffic, weather, and the towing company.
But when you’re stuck on the road, every minute counts. That’s why choosing a fast, trusted service like KTC Towing can make all the difference.